Golf: Bjorn leads after rain disrupts Singapore Open

SINGAPORE: The first round of the Barclays Singapore Open on Thursday was suspended midway due to rain and lightning.

Taking the clubhouse lead at Serapong course, at five under par 66, was Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn. He teed off in the morning and was spared the bad weather.

As in previous years, the weather once again disrupted play, affecting those who teed off in the afternoon.

Among them was World No.1 Rory McILroy, accompanied by his girlfriend, tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. The Irishman, who is playing in his second Singapore Open, managed eight holes to end on level par 71.

Clubhouse leader Bjorn took advantage of the better weather conditions earlier in the day to to hit six birdies.

Also spared the showers was three—time winner Adam Scott. A poor front nine meant the Australian had to settle for an even par round.

American veteran Phil Mickelson was another one not in the best form, shooting two over for the day.

Half the field of 156 players will have to finish their first round on Friday.

Still, it was a good outing for Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang, making his professional debut on home ground. The 25—year—old missed the cut twice as an amateur in 2005 and 2006, but is on one under after four holes.

Despite the unfriendly weather, the future of this event is bright. A new five—year agreement has been signed between the Singapore Golf Association and the tournament promoter World Sports Group.

But title sponsor Barclays is ending a seven—year partnership with the tournament, and organisers say a new title sponsor will be announced once the deal is signed.

— CNA/de